Damang airport project scope revised, cost now estimated at US$80m - Rammy Oboro

The proposed airport at Damang Gold Mine is expected to cost at least US$80 million to complete in two phases, as plans advance to improve air connectivity to the mining area.

The mine’s Community Relations Manager, Rammy Oboro, disclosed this during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen in Tarkwa-Damang.

He explained that the first phase of the project would focus on preparing and levelling the land for the runway, while the second phase would involve constructing supporting infrastructure and installing essential airport facilities.

According to Oboro, the runway is expected to stretch approximately two kilometres.

“The airport construction is anticipated to cost us not less than US$80 million for both Phase One and Phase Two,” he said.

He pointed out that the second phase would include additional structures and infrastructure, such as signal systems and electrical wiring, to support the airport’s operations.

The development comes after the proposed airport project underwent a significant change in scope following an announcement by Ibrahim Mahama, Chief Executive Officer of Engineers and Planners (E&P), the company that took over Damang Gold Mine.

The revised design is intended to accommodate larger aircraft, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Boeing 737.

The upgrade is expected to improve access to the mining area, making travel more convenient for mine personnel, business executives and other visitors.

Improved air connectivity could also support mining operations, facilitate business activities and create opportunities for economic growth in Damang and surrounding communities.

Earlier, Ibrahim Mahama, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Dzata Group Holdings, announced plans for the airport during the handover ceremony following E&P’s takeover of Damang Gold Mine.

At the ceremony, he pledged that the company would work to establish an airport in the area within six months of taking over the mine, with the aim of making air travel between Damang and Accra easier.

“We’ve applied for Damang to have an airport, and within six months, Damang will have an airport, such that we can fly to Accra easily,” he said.

The proposed airport forms part of efforts to strengthen transport links to the mining area and support the mine’s operational requirements.

However, details regarding the project’s construction schedule, final completion date and operational arrangements have yet to be provided.





MA